College Students Gift Their Security Guard With a Trip to Nigeria

aerial view of Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, Nigeria during the daytime
aerial view of Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, Nigeria during the daytime

In a display of generosity, students at Providence College in Rhode Island allied together to surprise their dedicated security guard, James. They surprised him with a gift that resonated deeply – the gift of travel. The initiative, spearheaded by freshman Brandon Reichert, exemplified the tight-knit community at Providence College. It also showcased the profound impact of empathy and collective action.

The Backstory

James’s role as a security guard transcended mere job responsibilities. He was a mentor, a friend, and a pillar of support for the students. His genuine care and unwavering dedication left an indelible mark on the Providence College community. When James revealed that he hadn’t visited his family in Nigeria for over a decade, the students were moved to action, determined to bring him joy and reunite him with his loved ones.

The Surprise

The idea took root during a conversation with James, where he fondly reminisced about his homeland and expressed his longing to see his family again. Touched by his sincerity, a group of students decided to harness the power of crowdfunding to make James’s dream a reality. Thus, the GoFundMe campaign was born, with the sole purpose of sending James on a trip to Nigeria.

The Response

The response was overwhelming, with donations pouring in from both the Providence College community and well-wishers across the globe. Within a short time, the campaign surpassed its initial goal, raising $30,000 – a testament to the collective goodwill and generosity of strangers.

James was moved by the outpouring of support. He expressed his gratitude in a TikTok video. “I don’t know how much I can thank you guys. I pray from the bottom of my heart and will continue to protect you guys,” he said. His story is a testament to the fact that, indeed, even the smallest gestures of kindness can make a world of difference in someone’s life.